Hundreds turn out to 'Hands Off' protest in Wasilla

Nearly 400 people turned out on April 5 at Newcomb Park in Wasilla to take part in the nationwide ‘Hands-Off’ protest. The protest, organized by Mat-Su United for Progress, was part of a day of protests held across the country organized by 50501and Hands Off!, which called for all 50 states to join in peaceful demonstrations April 5.

People participating in the protest addressed numerous issues from proposed cuts to Medicare, Medicaid and social security cutoffs, to President Donald Trump, Elon Musk and DOGE, to federal layoffs and unlawful deportation, to LGBTQ+ rights. They also called on the state and Borough to take action.

“This is not the time to back down. This is the time to rise. To link arms, raise our voices, and show up,” Dave Musgrave said in a speech to the crowd, who reassured the crowd that they will remain united. “We will keep fighting alongside you. This isn’t just a one-day protest—this is a long, ongoing movement.”